Overwinter treatment

The type of Chrysanthemum that we sell will normally need to be stored in frost free conditions over the winter.

If you have them planted in the ground, the plants should be lifted in the autumn and any soil cleaned from the roots. Cut top growth down to around 15cm (6"). It does no harm to dip the root ball in a disinfectant, such as Jeyes Fluid, for a few minutes to maintain cleanliness. Some growers also use a hot water dip to control eelworm. The recommended treatment is five minutes in water at 46°C (114°F). After this, dry the stools thoroughly, trim the roots to about 15cm (6") in length and then box them in seed trays using an open compost. Keep in an airy and frost free place. Keep the compost barely moist, but do not allow to dry out completely. Plants grown in pots can be moved into a frost free place for the winter and, as above, kept on the dry side. In mild areas and with well drained soil, the early flowering varieties may survive outdoors if covered with a mulch of organic material.

In the early spring, start watering to encourage growth. Varieties not covered by Plant Breeders Rights should be propagated from soft cuttings, to provide strong plants for the following season. Remember not to put Chrysanthemums outside until the danger of frost has passed.